A/control arms

[pharow]

I just have a quick question. Can the Front A/control arms be changed by one person with the car up on Jack stands?

Thanks.

[Fidhle007]

Yes, if you have the proper tools and a Bentley manual.

[pharow]

Ok, about how long would it take to do?

[Fidhle007]

That's hard saying not knowing your skill level, tool availability and competency with said tools...

[StereoInstaller1]

Ok, about how long would it take to do?

Going by your question, you have no clue what you are doing.

Don't be hurt, we all started somewhere, now is your turn. It is a whole new world, sometimes fun and cool, sometimes frustrating and horrid. Either way, remember this: if you learn a skill, life will conspire a need for you to use that skill.

I am gonna say if you have a full set of metric sockets, a 22mm wrench, a couple of big prybars, a can of PB Blaster, a couple of jackstands and a jack you can get this done.

Here is my call, timewise: 4 hours to get the first one off, 30 minutes to get the 2nd one off. 20 minutes to get the first one on, 12 minutes to get the second one on.

GL, go kick its ass.
Luke

[bimmerteck]

I usually have a pair done in around an hour. But I have the ball joint tools, airhammer, 22mm stubby. if the car has stock CABs add around an hour to that.

[pharow]

Soooo, what you guys are telling me, is that I should dedicate a day to this? Since it is my first time doing this.

It doesnt look too hard. So if it is not raining this weekend I will get to it. Thanks guys.

What are CABs?

[pharow]

Never mind. I got it.

[pharow]

Thanks guys. I got it all done. My car feels great. :D

[bimmerteck]

Thanks guys. I got it all done. My car feels great. :D

And for the benefit of the audience at home. . .

Where do you rate you mechanical ability from 1-10?
(1= you reference DIYs to check your oil, and 10 being the timing chain job on that new to you Jaguar v8 didn't even ruin your afternoon)

How long did it take you? (Be honest)


Any tips for the next person who's replacing their control arms for the first time?

[pharow]

Thanks bimmerteck, for calling me out.

Well it was not as bad as I thought it was going to be. It took 4 days. (because of work) I started Monday after work, and finished Thrusday after work. Plus I was on the ground, in the dirt.

Things would have been a lot easier if I had all the right tools when I started. (note to self-get better tools) I did not have a full set of metric sockets. I did have almost all of the wrenches. (all but the 22mm THAT IS VERY MUCH NEEDED) My boss and I pressed the CABs at work, so that was not so bad.

Tips for the next person...Have a GOOD set of tools, and if you can a lift, oh and some help.

Sizes to remember: 22mm, 19mm, 17mm, 13mm.

1-10 for me=5

[Sloppopotamus]

How did you get the ball joint out from the control arm connected to the strut housing? I'm trying to do this job right now and I guess I'm just unsure of what specialty tool I need or if anyone has a way without it. Everything else is ready just need to get that one joint off so I can pop the new one in

Edit: And out of no where a thunderstorm rolled in...sweet

[pharow]

I used a hammer, a few light taps, and some wiggling. Dropped right out.